## Gator Hope Hinges on QB Health 

The 2025 college football season is just around the corner, but for many teams, including preseason ranked Florida, success hinges on avoiding disaster. Even powerhouse programs can crumble under pressure, and injuries can derail even the most promising seasons.  

**A Question of Durability**

For the 15th-ranked Gators, Athletic senior writer Ralph D. Russo points to quarterback DJ Lagway's health as a critical factor. "Nothing is more important to the Gators’ success than quarterback DJ Lagway’s health," Russo writes. “The difference between living up to this ranking and falling flat against a difficult schedule comes down to whether coach Billy Napier and his staff are up to the task of getting the most out of the talented roster they built.” 

Unfortunately, concerns about Lagway's durability are already surfacing during preseason camp. He missed the first two days with a calf injury after battling core, hamstring, and shoulder issues last season. While he's back throwing after being cleared from his boot, the question remains: can Lagway stay healthy? 

**A Dual Threat With High Stakes**

Gators Wire's David Rosenberg echoes Russo's sentiment. "The injury bug is the only major red flag for Lagway coming into the 2025 campaign," he writes. "If he stays healthy, Lagway will be among the most dangerous dual threats in the SEC.”

That “if” carries significant weight. Without their potential Heisman Trophy candidate at the helm, the Gators' chances of success diminish considerably.  


Follow us on X (@GatorsWire), Bluesky, and Facebook for ongoing coverage of Florida Gators news, notes and opinions. 


## Gator Hope Hinges on QB Health 

The 2025 college football season is just around the corner, but for many teams, including preseason ranked Florida, success 

What could go wrong? The Athletic looks at Florida football&

What could go wrong? The Athletic looks at Florida football&#39;s worst-case scenario

##  Celtics Make Minimum Trade, Add Two-Way Player RJ Luis Jr.

The Boston Celtics swung a surprising deal last week, acquiring undrafted two-way wing RJ Luis Jr. from the Utah Jazz in exchange for veteran reserve forward Georges Niang and a pair of second-round draft picks.  To make the trade work, the Celtics had to adhere to the NBA's collective bargaining agreement minimum trade requirements.

**Logjam on the Two-Way Roster**

The move created a logjam among Boston's own two-way players. As a result, the team parted ways with veteran two-way forward Miles Norris. No. 57 pick in the 2025 draft Max Shulga also signed to a two-way deal, while No. 46 pick in the 2025 draft Amari Williams remains unsigned.

**Analysts Offer Insight**

The "NESN" YouTube channel recently released a clip from their "Hold My Banner" podcast examining the Luis Jr. trade in detail. You can check it out below!


Listen to "Havlicek Stole the Pod" on:
Spotify: https://tiny.ee/CdKp
iTunes: https://tiny.ee/RK47
YouTube: https://tiny.ee/cOW3   





##  Celtics Make Minimum Trade, Add Two-Way Player RJ Luis Jr.

The Boston Celtics swung a surprising deal last week, acquiring undrafted two-way wing RJ Luis J

Who is RJ Luis Jr., and why did the Boston Celtics trade for

Who is RJ Luis Jr., and why did the Boston Celtics trade for him?

## Jersey Number Legacy: The Story of Brooklyn Nets #22

The Brooklyn Nets boast a rich history, stretching back to their founding as the New Jersey Americans in 1967. Over six decades, over 600 players have worn one of 52 different jersey numbers for this iconic franchise.  We're diving deep into that legacy, exploring each number and the players who made it famous. Today: #22.

**A Brief Stint in Brooklyn:**

Thirty-one players have donned #22 for the Nets throughout their history. One of the first was Ron Perry, a guard who arrived in Brooklyn during the team's New York era. 

After playing college ball at Virginia Tech, Perry entered the 1967 NBA Draft, where he was selected 68th overall by the Baltimore Bullets.  Instead, he signed with the ABA’s Minnesota Muskies and later played for the Miami Floridians before landing with the Nets in 1968.

Perry's time in Brooklyn was short-lived, lasting just 23 games before being traded to the Indiana Pacers in 1969.  But during his brief tenure, he made a lasting impression, averaging an impressive 19.3 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game while sporting #22.


Basketball-Reference provides all stats and data mentioned.


## Jersey Number Legacy: The Story of Brooklyn Nets #22

The Brooklyn Nets boast a rich history, stretching back to their founding as the New Jersey Americans i

Brooklyn Nets jersey history No. 22 - Ron Perry (1968-69)

## Swim Star Returns to Charm City 

Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympian of all time with 28 medals, including 23 golds, is a Baltimore native who never forgot his roots. Though he now calls Arizona home, his heart remains in Maryland. Recently, the Ravens called upon their hometown hero for a unique training session.

**Social Media Challenge Turns into Reality**

The challenge began on social media when several popular Ravens players, including Marlon Humphrey, invited Phelps to teach them how to swim via X (formerly Twitter).  “I got y’all!!! Let’s do it!!,” Phelps responded enthusiastically. Two weeks later, the swimming legend returned to Baltimore, drawing attention wherever he went.

**Legends Collide in Charm City**

Photos captured the incredible moment as three iconic figures - Phelps, Humphrey, and another Ravens player - stood together, showcasing a unique blend of athleticism and camaraderie. 


**Finding a Future Swimmer?**

Phelps' visit provided a glimpse into the lighter side of training camp, offering a welcome break for the Ravens players who have been putting in long hours to prepare for the season. While Phelps didn’t find any potential Olympic swimmers among the team roster, the experience undoubtedly left a lasting impression on everyone involved.  


The Ravens are focused on achieving their own type of excellence this season, aiming for championship glory just like Phelps has achieved in his illustrious swimming career. 


## Swim Star Returns to Charm City 

Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympian of all time with 28 medals, including 23 golds, is a Baltimore native who never

Olympic legend Michael Phelps makes good on promise made to 

Olympic legend Michael Phelps makes good on promise made to hometown Ravens

##  Joplin Takes His Talents to France

Marquette basketball alum David Joplin is taking his game overseas.  The 6-foot-8 forward signed with Basket Club Maritime Gravelines-Dunkerque, a team competing in the Pro A league in France, on August 12th. This marks Joplin's first professional contract after standout performances at Brookfield Central High School and four seasons with Marquette University.

**From Summer League to European Courts**


Joplin had a brief stint with the Milwaukee Bucks during the NBA summer league, appearing in just one game.  Now, he'll be making his mark on the international stage. 

**Leaving Behind a Legacy at Marquette**


Joplin leaves Marquette as the program's all-time leader in games played with an impressive 139 appearances. He tallied 1,306 points over his four years, ranking seventh in program history with 229 three-pointers. Joplin was also recognized as the Big East's Sixth Man of the Year during the 2022-23 season.






##  Joplin Takes His Talents to France

Marquette basketball alum David Joplin is taking his game overseas.  The 6-foot-8 forward signed with Basket Club Mariti

Marquette&#39;s David Joplin signs first professional deal w

Marquette&#39;s David Joplin signs first professional deal with team in France

## Tigers Left Out of Preseason Poll: Blessing in Disguise?

The Kilcoyne Opinion isn't happy about Missouri being left out of this year's preseason top 25 college football rankings. But could the snub actually work in the Tigers' favor?


**A Snub That Could Fuel a Fire**

"It’s just disrespectful," says The Kilcoyne Opinion. "They’ve got the talent, they’ve got the potential. This team deserves to be ranked." 



**Unexpected Opportunity?**

Perhaps being overlooked will serve as motivation for the Tigers this season.  The lack of pressure and expectations could allow them to fly under the radar and surprise everyone come playoff time.  


## Tigers Left Out of Preseason Poll: Blessing in Disguise?

The Kilcoyne Opinion isn't happy about Missouri being left out of this year's preseason top 25 coll

TKO: Mizzou football not ranked in pre season top 25 ranking

TKO: Mizzou football not ranked in pre season top 25 rankings

## The Hundred's Queen? Ellyse Perry Stays Focused Amidst Global Cricket Boom

Ellyse Perry has seen it all in women's cricket. From her debut at just 16 years old to juggling international football with her iconic performances on the pitch, she's a living legend.  The 34-year-old all-rounder boasts an astonishing 337 caps for Australia and is now one of the most sought-after players in franchise leagues worldwide.

Having already tasted success in India's Women's Premier League and her native Women's Big Bash (WBBL), Perry is currently playing her third season with Birmingham Phoenix in The Hundred. She recently played for Hampshire in both the Women's Vitality Blast and the One-Day Cup. 

While Perry's focus remains on leading Phoenix, who finished seventh last year, she, along with other Australian stars like Alana King, Beth Mooney, Annabel Sutherland, and Phoebe Litchfield, will have their eyes set on defending their 50-over World Cup title in India this autumn.


**A Moment in Time?**

Australia's recent 16-0 Ashes victory over England put women's cricket in the UK under a spotlight like never before. “It’s really easy to get caught up in the scoreline of that series without really seeing the bigger picture,” Perry says. "There are some amazing players in that English team, world-class players who can win a game from anywhere.”

Perry acknowledges the historic nature of the win but believes it was a "moment in time," adding: “The next time we meet, it’ll be different circumstances – maybe in a World Cup. It’s a moment that has passed and not something that we all want to get stuck on or gloat about because cricket is so fickle, things can change so quickly.”

**Growth Through Scrutiny**

England's performance sparked widespread criticism and scrutiny, with fans voicing their frustration over repeated claims of being "so close" to beating Australia. Perry welcomes the increased attention on women’s cricket. 

“It shows that people care, and people expect a certain level of performance from their elite female teams and they are passionate about it," she says. “While criticism and being held to account isn't always a pleasant thing, equally it's a very positive thing for the direction of the game and that it's being taken really seriously."

**The Hundred’s Impact**

Perry highlights The Hundred's crucial role in developing young English talent. 

“The Hundred has just been brilliant for the women's game over here, you can really feel that interest, and the standard is really high,” she says. “It’s definitely a skill which takes some time to develop [playing in front of bigger crowds] and it probably comes a bit more naturally to some players, but the exposure to that is so important."

Despite recent ownership changes, Perry believes The Hundred doesn't need radical alterations just yet: "We get asked the reverse question back home. It’s contextual – they work really well for The Hundred because of the time of year, the school holidays and the summer when people want to socialise and enjoy their day out watching. The grounds and facilities really support that. I'm sure with new ownership things will continue to evolve, but at this point I don't think it needs to change.” 





## The Hundred's Queen? Ellyse Perry Stays Focused Amidst Global Cricket Boom

Ellyse Perry has seen it all in women's cricket. From her debut at just 16 years 

&#39;Women&#39;s game needs scrutiny&#39; - Perry on The Hun

&#39;Women&#39;s game needs scrutiny&#39; - Perry on The Hundred and Ashes

##  Castellanos Returns to Great American Ball Park for Snoop Dogg Concert

**Former Red Walks On Field After Series Loss to Phillies**

Nick Castellanos, who went 0-for-4 in the Phillies' series-opening win against his former team, made a surprise appearance on the field at Great American Ball Park after the game. The outfielder was spotted by Fox 19 reporter Joe Danneman during rapper Snoop Dogg's postgame concert.

Castellanos, who earned National League All-Star honors with the Reds in 2021, has since spoken candidly about his departure from the team. In 2022, he stated that the Reds' fanbase was "suffocating because of ownership" and claimed they didn't contact him after he opted out of his contract to explore free agency.

This season with the Phillies, Castellanos is batting .259 with 15 home runs and 60 RBIs. During his two seasons with Cincinnati (2020-2021), he hit .284 with 48 home runs and an OPS of .893 in 827 plate appearances.  


##  Castellanos Returns to Great American Ball Park for Snoop Dogg Concert

**Former Red Walks On Field After Series Loss to Phillies**

Nick Castellanos, who w

Watch: Phillies&#39; Nick Castellanos walks onto GABP field 

Watch: Phillies&#39; Nick Castellanos walks onto GABP field for Snoop Dogg&#39;s postgame concert

## The One That Got Away: Lewandowski's Regretful Premier League Dream 

**A Manchester United Move, A Volcanic Ash Cloud, and Finding Freedom with Klopp**

Robert Lewandowski, one of the world's most prolific strikers, has achieved almost everything imaginable in football. Champions League titles with Bayern Munich, La Liga trophies with Barcelona, a record-breaking season in Germany – his resume is stacked with success. Yet, there’s one dream that remains unfulfilled: playing in the Premier League.

"To Manchester United I decided and said yes," he told BBC Sport. "I wanted to join Manchester United, to see Alex Ferguson."  This near-move came in 2012 when Lewandowski was tearing up defenses at Borussia Dortmund. But his move to Old Trafford never materialized.

“They could not sell me,” Lewandowski explained. “Because they knew if I stayed they could earn more money, and that I could wait maybe one or two more years.”

Despite this missed opportunity, Lewandowski has no regrets about his career path. "Maybe it could be a regret [not to play in the Premier League]. But when I am looking back [having] played for Bayern Munich, Dortmund and now Barcelona I have to say I am very happy with my career," he stated. 

**A Lasting Impact: Klopp's Words That Changed Everything**

While his success speaks volumes, Lewandowski credits former Borussia Dortmund manager Jürgen Klopp for a profound impact on his life. “When I moved to Dortmund I was a very young guy, I lost my father when I was 16,” he revealed. "I for sure was a boy who was more closed, I didn’t want to speak about my emotion.”

“However, after a few years I met someone who I don’t want to say was like a father but similar. Maybe after so many years the kind of conversation that I missed with my father, I had with Jurgen,” Lewandowski continued, his voice laced with emotion.  “I remember the conversation until now because it changed my life, it changed my football life. I put my emotion out, I put out the words I had kept in for a few years and after this I felt freedom.”


**Passing the Torch: Learning from Barcelona's Rising Stars**

At 37, Lewandowski remains a force to be reckoned with. He’s now the seasoned veteran in a young Barcelona side brimming with talent like Lamine Yamal.  

"When I see that I still don’t have to catch the young guys, that they still have to catch me, it means this next season can also be very good," he said confidently. 


Lewandowski even acknowledges learning from his younger teammates: "I understood that I cannot fight with them but I can help them and they can also help me. I learn from them a lot."  

He speaks of seeing something special in Yamal from the moment he trained with the first team at just 15.  "It is the first time in my life I saw after 50 minutes that he had something special," Lewandowski recalled, almost incredulous.


 **A Missed Ballon d'Or Moment:**

Lewandowski has been a dominant force throughout his career, coming agonizingly close to winning the coveted Ballon d'Or award. He was a favorite for the 2020 edition which was canceled due to the pandemic and finished runner-up to Lionel Messi in 2021 after a record-breaking season.


"I think the difficult thing with that case is until now I don’t know why," he said, reflecting on his near misses.



Now, as he watches another generation of talent vying for football's highest individual honor, Lewandowski offers a glimpse into what it takes to reach the top.  He sees immense potential in players like Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, acknowledging that while this year may not be their time, the future is bright.




## The One That Got Away: Lewandowski's Regretful Premier League Dream 

**A Manchester United Move, A Volcanic Ash Cloud, and Finding Freedom with Klopp**

Rob

&#39;I said yes to them&#39; - when Lewandowski nearly joine

&#39;I said yes to them&#39; - when Lewandowski nearly joined Man Utd

## Eagles Soar Despite Dickerson Injury Blow

Philadelphia fans got a dose of both joy and disappointment at Sunday’s open practice. While star receiver A.J. Brown returned to the field, the team suffered a significant setback with offensive lineman Landon Dickerson sustaining a meniscus injury.

**Record-Breaking Charity Event**

The Eagles faithful turned out in force for the annual event, which benefits the Eagles Autism Foundation. This year’s practice raised over $630,000 for the organization. 

“#EaglesEverywhere THANK YOU for helping make a difference and supporting the @eaglesautism Foundation👏 pic.twitter.com/EuyGd0qpsK” - The Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) August 11, 2025

**Dickerson's Injury: A Devastating Blow**

The injury to Dickerson, confirmed by an MRI on Monday, casts a shadow over the team’s otherwise promising start to training camp. While the extent of his absence remains unclear, experts predict he could be sidelined anywhere from several weeks to months. 

ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith acknowledged the severity of the loss, stating, “It's a devastating blow, but if you're ranked as the number one offensive line in the National Football League...one would surmise that you should be able to overcome it."


**Can Philadelphia Overcome the Loss?**

Despite the challenge, Smith believes the Eagles’ depth can help mitigate the impact of Dickerson’s absence.  The team boasts a roster of experienced players like Matt Pryor, Darian Kinnard, and Brett Toth who can step into key roles.  Rookie Drew Kendall, a versatile center/guard, also adds another dimension to the offensive line.

Philadelphia will rely on their existing talent and coaching expertise to navigate this setback. The coming weeks will be crucial as they prepare for the upcoming season. 


## Eagles Soar Despite Dickerson Injury Blow

Philadelphia fans got a dose of both joy and disappointment at Sunday’s open practice. While star receiver A.J. Br

ESPN analyst believes the Eagles can overcome Landon Dickers

ESPN analyst believes the Eagles can overcome Landon Dickerson&#39;s meniscus injury

## Stroud Soaring: Texans QB Ranked 39th In NFL's Top 100

Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud has been ranked 39th on the NFL's Top 100 Players list for 2025, a significant jump from his No. 20 debut last year after his rookie season.  This places him among the opponents the Arizona Cardinals will face in the upcoming season.

"He plays like a vet," Texans defensive end Will Anderson said of Stroud. "Every player knows who's in charge when he walks in the room."

Anderson added that opposing teams already know Stroud can "sling the ball." In two NFL seasons, Stroud has led the Texans to two division titles and two playoff wins.  Teammate Nico Collins, a wide receiver, calls him "the best quarterback" in his eyes.


Last season, Stroud completed 63.2% of his passes for 3,727 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. He threw for 336 yards and two touchdowns against the Cardinals last year but was intercepted three times, marking his only career game with three interceptions.

The Cardinals will face Stroud and the Texans on the road in Week 15.


**Cardinals' Top 100 Opponents:**

As of this week's Top 100 rankings, the Cardinals are slated to face the following players:

* QB C.J. Stroud, Houston Texans (No. 39)
* WR Puka Nacua, LA Rams (No. 41)
* WR Mike Evans, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (No. 44)
* OL Trent Williams, San Francisco 49ers (No. 45)
* DE Will Anderson, Houston Texans (No. 46)
* QB Baker Mayfield, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (No. 50)
* OLB Jared Verse, LA Rams (No. 53)
* DE Nick Bosa, San Francisco 49ers (No. 57)
* RB Joe Mixon, Houston Texans (No. 58)
* QB Matthew Stafford, LA Rams (No. 59)
* RB Bijan Robinson, Atlanta Falcons (No. 62)
* DE Josh Hines-Allen, Jacksonville Jaguars (No. 63)
* QB Jordan Love, Green Bay Packers (No. 68)
* QB Sam Darnold, Seattle Seahawks (No. 72)
* RB Christian McCaffrey, San Francisco 49ers (No. 73)
* DT Vita Vea, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (No. 75)
* WR Tee Higgins, Cincinnati Bengals (No. 77)
* QB Dak Prescott, Dallas Cowboys (No. 79)
* DE Rashan Gary, Green Bay Packers (No. 80)
* RB Kyren Williams, LA Rams (No. 85)
* S Jessie Bates III, Atlanta Falcons (No. 92)
* LB Lavonte David, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (No. 96)
* WR Drake London, Atlanta Falcons (No. 97)
* DL Leonard Williams, Seattle Seahawks (No. 99)  





## Stroud Soaring: Texans QB Ranked 39th In NFL's Top 100

Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud has been ranked 39th on the NFL's Top 100 Players list for 202

NFL Top 100: Texans QB C.J. Stroud is No. 39, will face Card

NFL Top 100: Texans QB C.J. Stroud is No. 39, will face Cardinals in 2025

## Philly's Young Guns Ready to Rise Again

The Philadelphia Eagles are built on a foundation of young talent, many plucked from the annual NFL Draft. While some picks pan out instantly, others blossom into stars later. The Eagles have seen their share of both. 

**Super Bowl Rings in Year One**


This isn't about luck; it's about scouting and development.  The trio of Quinyon Mitchell, Jalyx Hunt, and Cooper DeJean all snagged Super Bowl rings in their rookie seasons. Now they’re being recognized for their early success.

An Eagles trifecta landed on ESPN’s list of the 20 most important second-year defenders across the league. The inclusion shouldn't be a surprise. Mitchell and DeJean stepped onto the field like seasoned veterans, while Hunt transitioned seamlessly from safety to edge rusher, earning his place alongside veteran stars.

**Hunt: From Rookie Sensation to Cornerstone?**

Ben Solak, the ESPN writer who compiled the list, highlights Hunt’s potential despite limited snaps in his rookie season. He acknowledges that Hunt's role is crucial with the departure of Josh Sweat and Brandon Graham from last year's Super Bowl roster. 

“Is Hunt ready for early-down responsibilities? His run defense wasn't often tested in Year 1, and he lacked the size to hold up at the point of attack. He can play his way into a three-down job, but the Eagles need him to be great in a rotational role, as they lost so many pressures from last season’s Super Bowl team."

While Solak raises valid points about Hunt's development,  the young player has all the tools to become a dominant force. 


**A Team Built for Success**


The success of Mitchell and DeJean, alongside Hunt's potential, showcases the Eagles' commitment to building a dynasty. The team boasts playmakers at every position, allowing each individual to thrive in their specific role. This collaborative approach ensures that everyone contributes to the collective success, setting the stage for another impressive season. 


## Philly's Young Guns Ready to Rise Again

The Philadelphia Eagles are built on a foundation of young talent, many plucked from the annual NFL Draft. While som

#Sports

What could go wrong? The Athletic looks at Florida football's worst-case scenario

Who is RJ Luis Jr., and why did the Boston Celtics trade for him?

Brooklyn Nets jersey history No. 22 - Ron Perry (1968-69)

Olympic legend Michael Phelps makes good on promise made to hometown Ravens

Marquette's David Joplin signs first professional deal with team in France

TKO: Mizzou football not ranked in pre season top 25 rankings

'Women's game needs scrutiny' - Perry on The Hundred and Ashes

Watch: Phillies' Nick Castellanos walks onto GABP field for Snoop Dogg's postgame concert

'I said yes to them' - when Lewandowski nearly joined Man Utd

ESPN analyst believes the Eagles can overcome Landon Dickerson's meniscus injury

NFL Top 100: Texans QB C.J. Stroud is No. 39, will face Cardinals in 2025

Three second-year Eagles named among NFL’s most vital second-year defenders